Species

Colocasia esculentaTaro

27 other cultivars

bulb corm tuber

Distant Memory Taro

Colocasia esculenta 'Distant Memory'

The Story

Plant Bio

Tropical plant with large, heart-shaped leaves and a striking appearance.

A clumping elephant ear whose new green leaves are highlighted by a large, central, purple-black blotch. As the leaves age, the blotch fades.

Uses & Benefits:

Distant Memory adds lush, tropical appeal with its striking patterned leaves, perfect for pond edges and shaded gardens.

Provides natural shade and cooling effect in garden settings.

Supports pollinators and provides habitat for beneficial insects.

SpeciesColocasia esculentaTaro

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Bulb Corm Tuber

Height

48 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

8, 9, 10

Water

High

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Southeast Asia

Toxicity

All parts are toxic if ingested raw; can cause skin irritation.

Bloom period

Late summer – Early fall

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck tubers into well-draining soil in early spring.
Water consistently to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
Provide partial shade in hot climates for optimal growth.
Divide rhizomes every 2-3 years for propagation.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Use rich, organic soil and maintain high humidity for lush foliage.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Keep soil consistently moist 🌱
Provide partial shade during hot afternoons
Apply organic compost annually
Monitor for pests regularly

Don't

Avoid waterlogging which can cause rot ❌
Do not expose to full, harsh sunlight in summer
Refrain from over-fertilizing to prevent leaf burn
Avoid dry soil conditions

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Lift Store
Mulch
Plant

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Tropical pond borderLush foliage accentShade garden feature

Companion Plants

Ferns Hostas Caladiums Elephant Ears Tropical Hibiscus

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Distant Memory Taro questions

What zones can Distant Memory Taro grow in?

Distant Memory Taro is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Distant Memory Taro deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Distant Memory Taro, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Distant Memory Taro bloom?

Distant Memory Taro typically blooms in late summer through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Distant Memory Taro need full sun?

Distant Memory Taro does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.